Guidance for Families

Food Resources

Find food in your community and resources to enroll in family meal and food programs. 

Minneapolis Public Schools has compiled a list of sites at which students and families can receive food assistance outside of the normal school day. 

FREE PRODUCE DISTRIBUTIONS, FOOD SHELVES AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES
  • Child Tax Credit

Families with no or low income may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per child. Learn more at the Minnesota Department of Revenue web site.

Eligible children receive a benefit value of $120.

A service to locate retail stores that accept SNAP.

EBT Edge allows you to set language preferences, view deposit and transaction history. You may also check your balance on your EBT card using EBT Edge.

If it is your first time using this service, you will need to create an account with username and password.

  • If you already have SNAP Benefits, take advantage of the Market Bucks Program. The program matches SNAP-EBT spending dollar-for-dollar (up to $10) at participating farmers’ markets across Minnesota. There are 4 easy steps to using SNAP-EBT at the farmers’ market:
  1.  Go to the Information Booth at the farmers’ market.
  2. Swipe your EBT card for the amount you want to spend. Your purchase will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $10.
  3. Get $10* in free Market Bucks, and $10* free in Produce Market Bucks.
  4. Shop for up to $30 of SNAP-eligible food and produce at the farmer’s market.

*Up to $10 per market visit. You do not have to spend the full $10 each time. 

You can also use SNAP and Market Bucks to make purchases at Fare for All, which offers deeply discounted food in bulk. Check their current schedule to learn when they will be in your community.

  • Find Help Map
    Free Community Food Distributions and Food Shelves Use the Find Help Map to determine the best program for you.

Text your ZIP code to 898211 to connect with text communication.

On the Food Group web site’s  Find Help Map, enter your address and complete other options for a customized result.

Fod shelves might require appointments, and schedules can change.  We encourage you to call ahead to verify the program hours and location before you make the trip.

  • Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations

FDPIR provides USDA Foods to income-eligible households living on Indian reservations and to Native American households residing in designated areas near reservations.

Created by 501c3 nonprofit Hunger Impact Partners for mobile devices to connect Minnesota families with food resource information.  Mobile App Privacy Policy

  • Minnesota Family Investment Program

The state’s welfare reform program for low-income families with children. MFIP helps families move to work. Apply here.

  • Replacement EBT Cards

Call the Minnesota Department of Human Services customer service: 888-997-2227. Replacement cards will be mailed to you by the department and are typically received within 5 days.

  • SNAP Assistance

If you want to apply for SNAP online and DO NOT need assistance, apply with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

You can also call Second Harvest Heartland at 866-844-3663 (FOOD) or use its eligibility screening tool.

St. Paul, Minnesota’s Think Small can connect you with resources and information to help you find and pay for child care.

  • WIC

To apply for WIC you can also call 1-800-942-4030 to contact your local office or visit the Minnesota Department of Health.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES
  • Free/Reduced Price School Meal Form

It is important for families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits, which determine how much funding your child’s school receives for educational programs and supports.

Eligible families can qualify for other benefits, such as: WIC, the Metro Transit Assistance Program, FCC Affordable Connectivity Program/Reduced price internet programs, some summer camps, athletic programs and/or childcare centers offering scholarships or discounts. Call your school to enroll.

  • Medical Assistance Medicare can help you with your required annual health insurance renewal. Avoid losing your health insurance by being prepared for your renewal.
  • United Way 2-1-1 provides free and confidential health and human services information for those in MInnesota.
SOCIAL RESOURCES
  • Cerebral Palsy Guide is a national support organization dedicated to educating individuals and their families about cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities. Find answers and guidance for assistance to help improve overall quality of life.

 

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